This Thanksgiving Holiday Make the Tasty State Bread of Texas

Find out How Something So Simple Can Taste So Great

Pan de Campo: A Texas Tradition A few years ago around the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, I helped one of my grandsons with a scouting project, and he wanted to make the Official State Bread of Texas, known as "Pan de Campo" or "Country Bread." In our family, we refer to it as plain and simple "Camp Bread." If it's going to be made while camping it had better be simple and easy, and it really is.

First off a Brief History of "Pan De Campo" As the Lone Star State was being settled in the 1800s, farmers, ranchers, and trail cooks relied on Pan de Campo to feed hungry cowboys after those long cattle drives across the Lone Star State. The bread was popular incredibly tasty and simple to make, and its durability made it easy to transport from ranch to ranch or on those long drives to Abilene, Kansas.

Here Are the Ingredients You Will Need:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1½ cups warm water
• Optional: yeast (for oven-baking)

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Oven Baking Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the water and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead: On a floured surface, knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.
5. Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Shape and Rise Again: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Let it rise for another 30-45 minutes on a baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.
   Recipe source: ChatGPT
   

 Campfire baking instructions:

1. Prepare the Campfire: Create a bed of hot coals.
2. Mix and Knead the Dough: Follow the same steps as above to prepare the dough.
3. Preheat the Dutch Oven: Place it on hot coals to preheat.
4. Bake: Place the dough in the Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and place hot coals on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, rotating occasionally.
5. Cool and Enjoy: Let it cool before serving.

A Holiday Tradition Pan de Campo, declared the Official State Bread of Texas by then-Governor Rick Perry in 2005, makes a perfect addition to holiday meals. Whether you’re entertaining family or friends for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this easy recipe is sure to bring a taste of Texas to your table.

Happy Holidays Y'all from the Lone Star State of Texas!